When a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, it can be overwhelming. Your focus of concern can quickly become "the patient" while concerns about yourself either don't occur to you, or if they come to mind, you quickly push them away. There is no doubt, however, that with the discovery of the disease, your life has changed, too. The Cancer Support Community strongly believes that caregivers are directly affected by cancer and can improve their own sense of control, community, and hope by becoming CARE Active.
The Cancer Support Community's CARE Active Concept
People who care about someone with cancer can become active participants in enhancing health and wellness for themselves and their loved ones, and nurturing their relationships through and beyond the cancer experience.
Being CARE Active is more than just coping with cancer and the stress it brings. It is about actively recognizing your ability to care effectively for your loved one and, at the same time, it is about your ability to address your own physical and emotional needs.
At the Cancer Support Community (CSC), there is a vibrant network of people committed to supporting one another and sharing what they have learned from their experiences, either at one of our in-person centers on through the Online Community. They aim of our organization is to create a warm, welcoming environment with easy access to information and activities that can help people connect with each other. When you have someone you care about with cancer, it can make a difference to be with others who understand.
All CSC programs are provided to participants FREE OF CHARGE. You can choose among a variety of programs designed to help you learn more about cancer and its treatment. You can also connect with and learn from others as you face cancer together. We are a community of people united in creating a better quality of life with, through, and beyond cancer.
Getting Started with the Cancer Support Community
There are many ways the Cancer Support Community can help you as a caregiver or simply affirm that you are on the right path for you and your loved ones. Here are 5 suggestions to help you make the most of what CSC has to offer:
1. Learn more about the Cancer Support Community Programs
If there is a location near you consider attending a Newcomers meeting. Find a location near you.
However, if you prefer to participate online, take a few moments to browse our Online Community. There are a host of opportunities to connect with others, to learn more about being a caregiver, and to learn how to better cope with the day-to-day stressors.
2. Consider Joining a Support Group
You may choose to join a support group at a nearby CSC or online. All support groups (in-person and online) for patients or for caregivers are facilitated by licensed psychotherapists who are specially trained in the Cancer Support Community model. Networking groups may be specific to a type of cancer (breast, prostate, lung, colorectal, gynecologic, etc.) or may be focused on a specific group such as young adults, couples, newly diagnosed, or long-term survivors. Check your local affiliate calendar or visit the Online Community to join an Online Support Group.
3. Review Educational Materials Online
Our nationally renowned educational programs are available on this website and provide state-of-the-art medical information.
4. Practice Stress Management
Whether you are a patient or a caregiver, reducing the stress of dealing with cancer is one of the most important things you can do to improve the quality of your life. Consider participating in a regular yoga class or Tai Chi. If there is a Cancer Support Community near you, there are frequent programs free of charge on meditation, relaxation and guided imagery. If you are participating online, you can try a relaxation exercise that you can practice in the comfort of your own home.
5. Know that the Cancer Support Community is Here For You!
At the Cancer Support Community, you decide what you need and when you need it. Everyone is different. The Cancer Support Community is here to help.